We were introduced to Issac Ray with his first single titled “The Burden” back in December of 2023. The track was very stripped back compared to his previous work in his alternative band project, SUNGATEPARK. Under Issac Ray, he focuses on playing his acoustic guitar and delivers a more personal, intimate vocal and writing performance. Although SUNGATEPARK has now disbanded this year, Issac Ray persists with displaying his artistry as a solo project. His second single “Nobody Like You” released back on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, this past month—a first love ballad. I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Issac as he gears up for putting a full band together, as well as begin his studio recording sessions in Austin later on in March for his new upcoming EP.

Matt: How does it feel now that your second single has been out for almost a month this Thursday?

Issac: It honestly feels so surreal. Growing up the way in the environment I did, I would have never thought it was possible to actually have my own music out on legitimate streaming platforms for the public to listen to!

Matt: How different was the recording process for “Nobody Like You” from your debut single, “The Burden?”

Issac: Well the main difference was definitely due to the fact that I was in a home studio provided by Primo Promos. They’re an entertainment company that provides live music events in the San Antonio, Texas area. I was able to use professional microphones and standardized studio equipment this time around on “Nobody Like You.”

Matt: Cover art is such an important aspect when it comes to your work. I’ve noticed all of your cover art so far has been illustrated. What were some of the inspirations you had for making the cover art for “Nobody Like You?”

Isaac: I definitely have to give most of the credit to my fiancé Ariana Morgan. She was a huge help and support as far as the illustration for these projects so far. We came up with the concepts for the cover art ideas by mainly talking about what my songs where really about, and what sort of feelings the music was trying to portray so that the listener would have a visualized perspective on something that’s personal to me like these songs.

Matt: Fans of SUNGATEPARK have been familiar with Issac Ray performing “Blonde,” which was a more intimate performance from you with the band. Now that you’re focusing on your solo material, what can fans expect from the Issac Ray project in terms of performance?

Issac: Well any new and old fans can definitely expect more of a variety as far as performance when it comes to this new project. To me what that means is definitely more intimate, solo acoustic music and performances, as well as big and intense shows the way fans were used to in comparison with SUNGATEPARK. In other words, you can expect a beautiful mix between the two!

Matt: When it comes to the sound of Issac Ray, what were some of the revelations you came across that helped lead you in a different direction than your most recent project with SUNGATEPARK?

Issac: The most important thing to point out is the fact that SUNGATEPARK was a collective project. It was three guys who love very different music coming together to create a new sound. That’s what SGP was all about; however, when it comes to the Issac Ray project, it’s all me. No co-writers, no borrowed lyrics, and no borrowed chords. When it comes down to the sound of this new project, you can really single out my influence as Issac Ray in comparison to the SGP project. My vision as far as music goes really shows what I’m capable of as a solo artist.

Matt: “Nobody Like You” focuses more on this idea of love and intimacy. What were the emotions you had during the writing process that allowed you to create this track?

Issac: Desire, puppy love, and growing up are all feelings I can relate to this song in particular; Contrary to popular belief, “Nobody Like You” is a bitter sweet love song that focuses on the feelings of when you first fall in love and miss the person when life moves on. It’s something that I feel everyone can relate to. It’s a song for all who still think about their first love even to this day.

Matt: With “The Burden” and “Nobody Like You” both being new projects under your solo work, will they each exist on their own or will they be a part of a larger project in the future?

Issac: Without giving out too much information, I think it’s safe to say that you can expect these songs to have later renditions once an Issac Ray band is formed!

Matt: The stripped back atmosphere you create with these tracks is more personal and intimate than anything you’ve done before. How would you best describe what feeling or environment you were trying to create with your solo work?

Issac: It’s definitely for the listener who’s alone in their room trapped with their thoughts and wanting to escape reality—even if it’s just for a moment. Just to think about life, love and growth.

Matt: Now that SUNGATEPARK has officially disbanded, I feel that this is just the beginning for a new era of Issac Ray. What are you hoping to accomplish with this project that will be different this time?

Issac: I really do think that this project has the potential to reach amazing heights. In the past couple of years, I’ve accomplished some things I genuinely thought were never possible. In all honesty, it’s because of that I really do think the Issac Ray project has the potential for label signing and a U.S. tour someday. My motto is to dream big, and that’s exactly what’s in store for Issac Ray.

Matt: What do you want your audience to take away from listening to your solo work overall, but also with “Nobody Like You?”

Issac: I would definitely say to keep in mind that these two singles that are out should be considered more as demos than an official release. There’s so much more I wish I could do with these songs, but are limited with resources I’ve got on hand. I promise to everyone that it won’t stop me from putting out more music, keeping my passion alive, and burning bright as it always has.

Matt: What other projects are you working outside of your solo music under Issac Ray? What are you hoping to accomplish in 2024?

Issac: Im also currently working on becoming a DJ! I’m working alongside a local legend of the 80’s and 90’s scene here in SATX—my father DJ Leo has been showing me the ropes, and I hope to continue to shine in the avenue as DJ Ray, as well as performing as Issac Ray!

Matt: Lastly, why should people care about Issac Ray?

Issac: The reason shouldn’t be because of who you are, or who people think you are, or where you come from, or what your background is. The only reason you should listen to or care about Issac Ray is because you love the music I put out.

The Deep End with Issac Ray on Nobody Like You